The Kansas City Chiefs are preparing for Super Bowl LIX this Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles. Fortunately, heading into this game for the Chiefs injuries are not expected to significantly impact their championship hopes. Head Coach Andy Reid and his staff received encouraging news ahead of the big game, with Kansas City’s latest injury report suggesting they will be near full strength.
On Wednesday, Kansas City released its first official injury report of Super Bowl week. Only three players appeared on the list with two being full participants in practice. Thursday’s injury report was much of the same with the only change being from punter Matt Araiza being added. The lone limited participant was Wide Receiver Skyy Moore, though his status remains uncertain. His availability is in question for this weekend.
Chiefs Injuries vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Kansas City’s injury report was a short one for their final game of the season. On it was Quarterback Patrick Mahomes, Offensive Tackle Jawaan Taylor, Matt Araiza, and Moore. Mahomes, Taylor, and Araiza have all been full participants in practice, which is a great sign. Mahomes has dealt with an ankle injury, but it hasn’t slowed him down. The star quarterback has continued playing at a high level without setbacks, and it appears that will continue to be the case.
Mahomes originally sustained the injury during a Week 16 matchup against the Cleveland Browns. He never missed a game, but the lingering effects have remained. Despite some discomfort, Mahomes led the Chiefs to an AFC Championship Game win over the Buffalo Bills. His mobility and effectiveness don’t appear to be impacted heading into Sunday.
Taylor has been managing a knee injury that carried over from the regular season. However, he was also a full participant, signaling no major concerns. His presence on the right side of the offensive line will be crucial against Philadelphia’s pass rush. The Chiefs will need him at his best to protect Mahomes and help the Chiefs establish their run game. Araiza was added to the team’s injury report on Thursday due to an illness, but he remained a full participant in the Chiefs practice along with Mahomes and Taylor who are also on track for Sunday.
Defensive Players Trending In Right Direction
The Chiefs’ secondary has also dealt with injuries, but all signs point to everyone playing. Safety Bryan Cook and Cornerback Jaylen Watson were both on last week’s report. However, neither player appeared on this week’s injury list. Both seem to be on track to play without any limitations.
Cook has been recovering from a quad injury that sidelined him earlier in the season. His return is a boost for Kansas City’s defensive backline against Philadelphia’s passing attack. Watson had been nursing an ankle injury but has now resumed full activities. His presence playing opposite Trent McDuffie will help the Chiefs matchup against the Eagles’ two top wideouts.
Aside from Mahomes, Taylor, and Araiza the only other name on the report is Moore. The wide receiver was a limited participant, but his impact has been minimal this season. He hasn’t played since Week 7 and remains a long shot to suit up. Even if active, his role in the offense would likely be limited.
Final Thoughts
The Chiefs enter Super Bowl LIX in an excellent position regarding injuries. With only one player limited, they are the healthier team entering this game. Their key contributors appear ready, giving them a huge advantage. Kansas City will have most of its roster available for the Super Bowl
With only Moore’s status remaining uncertain, Mahomes, Taylor, and Araiza are at full strength. The Chiefs have managed injuries well throughout the postseason. Them being the healthier team could be the slight advantage that plays into which ball club comes out on top on Sunday. With a mostly intact roster, Kansas City looks primed to compete for another title.
